ABC’s “Nightline” drew the highest ratings among the late-night programs last week, as the ABC program grew week-to-week in total viewers and both demos. Ratings were boosted, in part, by a high-profile interview with Jesse James and the season finale of DWTS. (The “Nightline” average is based on M, Tu, Th, Fri.)
NBC’s “Tonight” show saw its numbers decline the most week-to-week, while CBS’ “Late Show” also saw a modest decline.
For May Sweeps, Jay Leno kept his program in the top spot in total viewers and the two demos. “Nightline” finished second in all categories, marking the first time since 2000 that the program has been #2 in total viewers and the A25-54 demo for May sweep. The gap with NBC in those categories was the smallest its been in 15 years.
Note: ABC ratings are based on 30-minute broadcast, while CBS and NBC are based on one hour.
The numbers for the week of May 24:
| Show | Network | Total Viewers | A25-54 | A18-49 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nightline | ABC | 4.39M | 1.86M | 1.50M |
| Tonight Show | NBC | 3.88M | 1.66M | 1.32M |
| Late Show | CBS | 3.32M | 1.50M | 1.18M |
May Sweeps numbers after the jump:
| Show | Network | Total Viewers | A25-54 | A18-49 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tonight Show | NBC | 4.10M | 1.78M | 1.45M |
| Nightline | ABC | 3.84M | 1.66M | 1.35M |
| Late Show | CBS | 3.48M | 1.58M | 1.23M |